At least that's what many people from the south of England seem to think. There is a common perception that the north is bleak and unsophisticated, that it's boring and full of the working class, that it's a terrible place to go to university when you could be off to Oxbridge, London or the Home Counties. Well it's time to set the record straight.

With the big cities of Manchester and Leeds, the European Capital of Culture in 2008 (Liverpool), the incredible nightlife and the general all-round greatness of the north, going to university in the north is much better than going to university in the south.

Here are eight reasons why:

1

It is cheaper

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The cost of living is cheaper in every way, so you certainly get more bang for your buck in the north. Rent is definitely much less expensive, even as low as £50 per week in some areas. Most importantly drinks are cheaper too, 3 trebles for £5 anyone?

2

Northerners are friendlier

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It may seem like a big shock if you've moved to the north from London or a similarly big city, but people actually talk to strangers, whether it be on the bus or in the shops. Be prepared for affectionate terms like 'pet' or 'love'.

3

The nightlife is better

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With the club scenes of Manchester, Newcastle, Liverpool, Sheffield, Leeds and others it is of no surprise that the north dominates the tables of the top universities for diverse nightlife.

4

The scenery

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With backdrops of the Yorkshire Dales, the Lake District, stunning cathedrals and the coast there can be no doubt that the scenery in the north is ten times better than that of the south. Don't underestimate this, a nice view can do a lot to cheer you up on the boring walk to lectures.

5

Greggs

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None of this Pret A Manger nonsense, in the north there are Greggs everywhere. Perfect for that pasty to cure the hangover or that sugar fix you need to perk yourself up in the morning.

6

The weather is more interesting

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Snow, then sun, then hail, then rain, then more sun, then huge gusts of wind. All in one day. The unpredictability of the weather makes life much more entertaining in the north when it comes to choosing what to wear for the day.

7

The accents are more fun

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Geordie, Scouse, Mancunian, Yorkshire, and many others make talking to people in the north much more entertaining. Trying to understand them can sometimes prove troublesome though.

8

There is gravy everywhere

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Northerners really do love their gravy. You can literally have it on anything, but the best has got to be gravy and chips on the way home after a big night out.